Kia Motors UK appoints new aftersales director

Kia Motors UK has appointed Chris Lear as aftersales director following the retirement of Hamish McCowan

Lear moves from his previous role as national aftersales manager, a position he has held for nearly 11 years.

Lear said: “It is an absolute privilege to be taking over from Hamish who has superbly guided the After-Sales’ growth of Kia in the UK for the last 15 years.

“I look forward to continuing to build on the great work already done, working collaboratively with our dealer partners to fully support their business success and in turn that of Kia.”

McCowan had over 40 years of experience in the motor industry, working with Saab, Toyota, Volvo, Porsche and Mazda.

He started his career with Kia in 2000 in the role of regional business manager, becoming head of aftersales in 2003 and aftersales director in 2005,

“I am exceptionally proud to be leaving the aftersales department in such great shape after a record-breaking start to 2018.

“The growth that Kia has achieved in the UK over recent years has been extraordinary and I am delighted to have been a part of it and the Kia family. I wish everyone at Kia the greatest success for the future.”

Paul Philpott, president and CEO at Kia Motors (UK), said: “Hamish has been a central and vital part of the tremendous partnership we have built with our dealer network. His experience and professionalism are unrivalled in this industry and we shall miss him in so many ways.”